I'm so lucky to have an 'art mom' who anticipates just what I need, when I need it, because she has experienced it first. Leslie is a great mentor and friend to everyone, especially new teachers. She goes out of her way to help them get on their feet, just like she did with me almost 10 years ago! A good mentor knows when to surprise you with a special treat, (like M&Ms in a special little owl jar). A good mentor asks opened-ended questions, helps you work through problems so that you can solve them yourself. A good mentor knows when to laugh with you (and at you ;-). A good mentor cries right along with you, but offers support in all the best ways. A good mentor gives you the chance to try out your ideas, so that you can learn from what will/won't work, and then gives suggestions for how to make it better, or offers support if it is a complete failure. The idea may not have worked, but that doesn't mean you are a failure. A good mentor is a friend and a coach and a mom, whatever you need, when you need it, without being overbearing. A good mentor loves you and supports you. Thank you Mrs. Clark for all the emails, the long talks at football games about school and art and teaching, and for always making sure I have what I need. We are definitely on the same wave length when it comes to thinking about art and teaching lessons (even though we don't do everything the same way), and it really helps make my job easier knowing that I can count on you to support me. You are the best mentor ever! This post is part of the Reflective Teaching Blog Challenge.